Hochwilde

Avalanche Danger Scale

1 (LOW)

An avalanche release is only possible with a significant additional load on very few, extreme steep slopes. No spontaneous avalanches (so-called slides) are expected. Generally safe conditions.

2 (MODERATE)

An avalanche release is likely with a significant additional load mainly on the indicated steep slopes. Larger avalanches are not expected. The snowpack is generally well consolidated except on some steep slopes. Careful route choice is advised at the indicated steep slopes and slope aspects.

3 (CONSIDERABLE)

An avalanche release is already likely with a small additional load mainly on the indicated steep slopes. Occasionally some medium, but also large avalanches are possible spontaneously. The snowpack on many steep slopes is only moderately to weakly consolidated. Experience in avalanche assessment is necessary. Avoid the indicated steep slopes and slope aspects as much as possible.

4 (HIGH)

An avalanche release is already possible with a small additional load mainly on the indicated steep slopes. Occasionally many medium and sometimes large avalanches occur. On many steep slopes, the snowpack is only weakly consolidated. Route choice should be limited to moderately steep terrain and be mindful of avalanche runout zones. Extensive experience in avalanche assessment is necessary.

5 (VERY HIGH)

Numerous large avalanches, also in moderately steep terrain, are expected spontaneously. At this warning level, safe operation in ski areas is no longer possible. The snowpack is generally weakly consolidated and unstable. Avoid tours is recommended.

See also at lawine.tirol.gv.at

Ski Tour Rules

• Observe the applicable regulations in all activities in nature and when selecting tours (e.g. wildlife protection areas, hunting closure zones, reforestation areas, information boards, etc.)
• Respect quiet zones for wildlife and avoid feeding areas as well as loud noise
• Cross forest areas in winter preferably only on permitted paths and routes; animals react very panicked to unlocalized noises.
• Recognize the habitats of wildlife, avoid them as much as possible. Observe wildlife only from a distance. Dogs must be kept on a leash; it is absolutely irresponsible to let dogs run freely in the forest during the winter hardship period.
• Proper time planning: start early enough and return before darkness falls. In spring, one should be back at the hut by noon (avalanche danger).
• Never ski through reforestation and young growth areas.

Ötztal Tourism accepts no liability for the listed tours and recommends taking a mountain guide. Glacier crossings are only possible with a rope and in a group.

Before starting a tour, you should inform the valley of your destination and expected return time. Carrying an avalanche transceiver is strongly recommended.

More information about ski tours in the Ötztal: https://www.oetztal.com/skitouren

From the Langtalereckhütte through the Langtal in tight switchbacks very steeply up to the Gurgler Ferner (Annajoch) and then a few meters shortly, again very steeply, to the rocky summit formation of the Hochwilde north summit. Here from the ski deposit on foot through the steep gully, briefly crossing a rock head and the eastern steep flank. At the end over a narrow snow ridge to the summit.